2020 RAM 2500 vs 2021 Toyota Tundra

The 2020 RAM 2500 was a standout in the heavy-duty truck segment, offering a level of elegance and upscale design that set it apart from its competitors. Its grille, tailored for each of the six trim levels, was a defining feature, and the truck's overall design exuded a sense of power and sophistication. The RAM 2500's LED headlights and chrome or body-colour bumper options added to its refined appearance. The truck's resemblance to the smaller RAM 1500 was evident, but the 2500's larger size gave it a more commanding presence. The Limited trim, with its 20-inch chrome wheels and LED taillights, further enhanced its luxurious appeal. Inside, the RAM 2500 impressed with its high-quality materials and craftsmanship, especially in the upper trims like the Laramie Longhorn and Limited. The interior featured soft-grained leather, intricate stitching, and elegant wood trim, creating a cabin that rivalled luxury vehicles. The attention to detail extended to the grab handles and shifter knob, and the optional 12-inch vertical touchscreen added a modern touch to the truck's interior.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Tundra had a somewhat awkward appearance, with a massive grille and small headlights that gave it an oversized look. Despite its dated design, the Tundra's "Cement" paint colour and blacked-out wheels and badging gave it a modern touch. The cabin, while dated, featured contemporary elements like a standard 7-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Tundra's interior was functional, with all buttons and dials within easy reach, making it user-friendly. The truck offered various cab and bed configurations, with the CrewMax providing ample legroom and a lockable cargo area. The Tundra's infotainment system, updated in 2020, included an 8-inch touchscreen with standard SiriusXM satellite radio and available navigation. The truck also came with multiple USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring drivers stayed connected on the road.

The 2020 RAM 2500 offered a choice between two powerful engine options. The 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine delivered 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This combination provided a smooth and powerful driving experience, with a maximum towing capacity of 7,869 kg (17,350 pounds) for RWD models. The diesel option, a 6.7-litre Cummins inline-six, produced 370 horsepower and an impressive 850 pound-feet of torque. This engine allowed the RAM 2500 to tow up to 8,972 kg (19,780 pounds) and haul a payload of up to 1,388 kg (3,060 pounds). The diesel's exhaust brake was a standout feature, providing effective braking and extending brake life. Despite its size, the RAM 2500 offered a comfortable ride, with decent acceleration and a quiet cabin.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra came standard with a 5.7-litre V8 engine, producing 391 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing strong acceleration and confident performance. The Tundra's towing capacity was 4,400 kg (9,700 pounds), and it had a payload capacity of 599 kg (1,320 pounds). While its towing capacity was lower than some competitors, the Tundra offered a comfortable ride, with its suspension effectively absorbing bumps in the road. The truck's steering was vague at low speeds but settled in on the highway, making it well-suited for long-distance cruising.

The 2020 RAM 2500 offered versatility with its choice of three cabs and two beds. The Single Cab provided the highest payload capacity and could seat three across, while the Crew Cab offered more space and comfort. The Mega Cab option provided rear passengers with the luxury of reclining seats and ample headroom. The RAM 2500's interior was spacious, with power running boards and a retractable tailgate step making it easier to access the cabin. The truck also featured a power tailgate, adjustable mirrors, and optional RamBox storage bins for added convenience. The RAM 2500's bed was designed for practicality, with pre-drilled holes for a fifth-wheel hitch and available spray-in bed liner and LED lighting.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra offered two cab sizes and three bed sizes, with the Double Cab featuring conventionally-opening rear doors. The CrewMax, a full four-door crew cab, provided exceptional legroom and a lockable cargo area. The Tundra's front seats offered plenty of space, with a massive centre console and multiple storage compartments. The truck's doors featured trays and cup holders, though they were smaller than those in other full-size pickups. The Tundra's interior was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on practicality and comfort.

The 2020 RAM 2500 came standard with a 5-inch touchscreen, but the 8.4-inch Uconnect upgrade was highly recommended for its quick and logical interface. The optional 12-inch display was a standout feature, offering a large and intuitive interface for navigation, settings, and camera views. The RAM 2500's infotainment system was complemented by a large display in the instrument cluster, providing easy access to essential information.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra featured an updated infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was easy to operate, with redundant hard buttons for added convenience. The Tundra also came with multiple USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring drivers stayed connected on the road. The available JBL premium audio system provided a high-quality listening experience with 12 speakers, including a subwoofer and amplifier.

The 2020 RAM 2500 was not rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, but the RAM 1500 received high safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. The RAM 2500 offered optional driver-assistance features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and forward emergency braking. These features were designed to enhance safety, especially when towing.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra came standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. The Tundra also offered optional safety features like front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Standard safety features included eight airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and a tow package with a heavy-duty hitch receiver and transmission cooler.